NEW! Sgt. SPLENDOR Occasions for Self-Congratulations
by Walter Price
Buckle up Buttercups, the carnivalilistic LP “Occasions for Self-Congratulations” from mighty duo Sgt. Splendor (Kate Vargas and Eric McFadden) is a journey into the far-out and sprawling cornucopia of psych, blues, funk, twisted pop, and respectful odes to experimental classic rock. And it’s as wild of a ride as you’re gonna get this side of Fantastic Negrito, Soft Machine, or perhaps hallowed Roky Erickson.
In a quote provided to the GTC, Vargas says of this pandemic-era album, “It’s an abstract expression of that strange time.” Heavy on the strange, if you will. As there’s not a corner that feels like a conventional rock n roll train of thought throughout this 11-track set. Like a modern reincarnation of Zappa, Captain Beefheart, and Joplin all twisted together into a new wandering sonic soul.
To get ya started down the spiraling cerebral escapism of “Occasions for Self-Congratulations”, start at the start with “Whoopee Château“, or maybe “Michael Myers“, “All Dead to Me” or “Crash Dancing” will tickle your fancy. Perhaps you should do the proper thing and listen to it from top to bottom like a civilized music connoisseur. Which you can do, now at the GTC.
Let your journey begin…
Sgt. SPLENDOR Occasions for Self-Congratulations
Artist photo and quotes courtesy of Public Display PR
Co-Produced by Travis Kasperbauer, McFadden, and Vargas
“The whole thing has this Jim Morrison sentiment…like, I’m gonna get my kicks before the whole shithouse goes up in flames.’” E. McFadden (Whoopee Chateau)